What is "stavudine"

n. A nucleoside-analogue reverse transcriptase inhibitor active against HIV.

Stavudine (d4T), sold under the brand name Zerit among others, is an antiretroviral medication used to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS. It is of the nucleoside analog reverse-transcriptase inhibitor (NRTI) class. It is used in combination antiretroviral therapy (ART) in resource-constrained countries due to its low cost.

Stavudine is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines, the most important medication needed in a basic health system. WHO now recommends it be phased out to due to high toxicity levels. Until an affordable alternative is available it is recommended that the dosage be lowered to reduce serious side effects. A 2015 Cochrane review found no clear advantage between high and low dosage regimens.